Local Italian family the Capriglione’s have been celebrating their 20 year anniversary of opening the doors of Claudio’s Restaurant, Moffat which is situated in the town’s historical old Police station this week.
It was on Monday, 24th June 1996 that Claudio and Florence Capriglione opened their dream business in the picturesque town of Moffat, Dumfries and Galloway. Bringing their Italian flair and family recipes and using local produce they created dishes that are still popular with customers, old and new to this day.
When originally opened Claudio stated “I am offering something different, something new, I plan to give people a restaurant they would expect to enjoy when going out”
Very sadly, 3 years later in 1999 the family were devastated with the sudden passing of Claudio, but they worked together to keep his good name alive. His son Davide who was then just 20 took over the reins of front of house where he still continues to greet customers in the way Claudio did with a warm smile and open arms.
Davide said “It was daunting to take over the responsibility of being Manager at such a young age, but I wanted to make my dad proud and although I have added my own twist to the place over the years my dad’s spirit and name very much live on”
“Claudio’s is a real family business that would not have survived without the effort and loyalty of everyone who has worked here over the years especially my mum Florence and my sister Claudia who is now Head Chef”.
Florence said ”the first 20 years have flown by, the restaurant has experienced many happy times with customers celebrating joyous occasions and it means a lot to have been at the heart of them and to have helped create so many memories for so many people. We would like to thank each and every customer who has eaten with us over the last 20 years and we look forward to welcoming them and many new faces through our doors in the years to come”
No celebration would be complete without cake and a glass of Italian fizz so that evening to the surprise of every customer who came through the door they were given a slice of delicious cake (baked by Dotty Designs of Kirkcudbright) and a glass of Italian Prosecco if they wished, but it was a huge surprise for David Gala who was the lucky 20th customer through the door that evening and won a £100 Voucher to use in the future.
In the last few months Claudio’s launched their brand new lunchtime menu offering a wonderful variety of delicious bites and dishes cooked by Florence’s husband Nicolae Popescu. Lunches are served from 12pm – 2pm daily during the summer and 5 days a week in winter months.
If you are looking for an authentic Italian welcome and food for either an intimate romantic night or a large celebration book your table by calling 01683 220 958
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